Man denies interfering with operation of Dublin Airport by flying drone

The accused was granted bail

Ainis Guzauskus is accused of an offence under section three of the Air Navigation and Transport Act 1975, unlawfully and intentionally interfering with the operation of an air navigation facility, Dublin Airport, by flying a DJI Mavic mini 2 drone, on July 2, 2022. File photo: Collins Courts

A man has pleaded not guilty and will face a Circuit Court jury trial accused of unlawfully using a drone that interfered with the operation of Dublin Airport.

Ainis Guzauskus, 41, is accused of an offence under section three of the Air Navigation and Transport Act 1975, unlawfully and intentionally interfering with the operation of an air navigation facility, Dublin Airport, by flying a DJI Mavic mini 2 drone, on July 2, 2022.

The father of two, of Ridgewood Close, Swords, Dublin, appeared before Michele Finan at Dublin District Court on Friday to enter a plea. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has directed a "trial on indictment", so Mr Guzauskus would face a jury trial in the Circuit Court with broader sentencing powers if he contested the case.

However, the DPP consented to the case staying in the District Court "on a plea of guilty". Defence solicitor Tracy Horan confirmed Mr Guzauskus "pleads not guilty".

Judge Finan noted his decision and adjourned the case until November for the DPP to prepare a book of evidence which must be served on the accused before the District Court grants a trial order. Mr Guzauskus was remanded on continuing bail.

He must only go to the airport if he has a valid ticket and has other bail terms: a ban on drone flying; an order not to apply for a new passport; be contactable by phone; and not leave the State without the court's permission.

The court has heard the accused lived in Ireland for 14 years and did not require an interpreter.

Mr Guzauskus, is in full-time work, but was entitled to legal aid.

It is illegal to fly drones within 5 kms of the airport; drones over a certain size must be registered, and each device has a unique digital fingerprint for identification.